Pandemic Influenza

The predicted, world-wide pandemic outbreak of a new strain of influenza virus would be a highly stressful event for health care providers who already face stressful working conditions, low morale and high rates of burnout. This pilot research project used both qualitative and quantitative methods to better understand the needs and concerns that health care providers themselves identify as important to their resilience and ability to work effectively during a pandemic influenza.

Eight focus groups were conducted at a large, urban hospital over a period of seven months with a total of 52 individuals from a variety of front-line, administrative, and professional roles. Participants were given a detailed presentation on the predicted nature of a pandemic influenza, and then engaged in guided discussions that focused on the needs and concerns that arose for them in light of this.

Participants also completed the State Trait Anxiety Inventory – state (STAI-s) measure before and after the pandemic information package. Results: Six themes emerged in focus group discussions: the relationship between work and home; the emotional impact, psychosocial support; leadership authority and difficult decisions; communication; and supplies. The quantitative measure revealed that participants experienced a large increase in anxiety as a result of the pandemic information presentation. The research findings point to how specific aspects of pre-planning, preparation and support initiatives, as well as training and orientation programs, could be addressed in order to better prepare and support health care practitioners for potential future pandemics.

ICISF 2009 Presentation Pandemic Influenza [pdf]

To learn more, please contact Dr. Paul Whitehead by email at pwhitehead@providencehealth.bc.ca

Retrospective Chart Review

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